Oke Links March/April 2022 by Links Magazines

OKE LINKS March/April 2022 | Issue 30

See our What’s On Section to find out what’s happening in your area

Okehampton friends launch podcast to tackle mental health struggles

999

What’s Your Emergency?

Find out the origins of this lifesaving phone number

Meet the locals

Okehampton’s Armed Forces Veterans’

A woman dedicated to Okehampton and its hamlets

much loved breakfast club

A principal from Chagford explains his vision for the school

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WALK

A walk rich in wildlife

CHARITY

Providing a lifeline for young people

GARDENING

RHS Rosemoor - Cherry blossom history

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Spring is here! The deadline date for any inclusions in the May/June issue of Oke Links will be March 25 2022. For all editorial enquiries please contact editor Lindsay Turpin: lindsay.turpin @linksmagazines.co.uk

THE LINKS TEAM: Publisher: Tim Randell Editor: Lindsay Turpin Design: Sara Venner, Julian Rees Advertising: Jane Daniel, Olivia Breyley, Joanne Mallard, Tim: 07450 161 929 Jane: 07772 619 808 Contact Lindsay Turpin, Editor on 07738 231933 lindsay. turpin@linksmagazines.co.uk

contents

Front page picture is courtesy of Stone Lane. See page 52 for information on this charity’s exhibition and its search for the next up and coming artist.

6 Feature 8 Local People 13 Noticeboard 24 Charity Focus 27 Health 34 Business 36 Gardening 40 Education 42 Sport

March is my favourite month of the year - not only because it’s my birthday month but also because it marks the beginning of Spring. Now don’t get me wrong I do enjoy Winter, it does have its wonders, but it’s something about entering Spring that really lifts everyone’s spirits.

and borough councillor but as a volunteer of many local groups. Next we hear from Ed Finch, Chagford Primary School’s principal, who explains that his goal is to make every child feel that they belong, that they matter and that they are valued for their unique qualities.

And I hope that when you read this issue of Oke Links your spirit is lifted as we have some truly remarkable people and organisations in this edition all focussed on helping people in the community.

Our walk this month takes in Drewsteignton, Rectory Wood and the Teign Gorge. At approximately 4 miles long, Lisa Harris and her dog Badger take us on a journey rich in wildlife with spectacular views. Or you could take a journey through the history of the cherry blossom with RHS Rosemoor featured in our gardening section.

First up is our double page spread where we have focussed on a group of five friends who have formed Sadboy Squad and launched their own podcast as a way of tackling their mental health struggles - and they hope it will inspire others to reach out and not suffer in silence. The subject of our charity focus is Tor Support, a small Okehampton-based charity providing a much-needed lifeline for the young people in the town, focussing on their wellbeing. Our local people also highlight the importance of community and that with it you can move mountains: Julie Yelland is up first and explains her drive to look after the residents of Okehampton, not only as her role as a town

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for sending me their news and what’s on events for their area - it is gratefully received. As our next edition will include the month of June, I would love to be able to include everyone’s celebrations for the Queen’s Jubilee. Please do contact me via telephone or email before the deadline (printed left) and I will endeavour to include it within the magazine. I hope you enjoy reading this latest issue of Oke Links - I hope you agree that there is lots to read and enjoy.

Lindsay

Lindsay Turpin, Editor

@okelinks 45 Farming News 47 What’s On 52 Music and Art 56 Food and Drink 58 History 60 Walk

17 37

PLYM LINKS February/March 2022 | Issue 14

LISHI

10 YEARS

The origins of our lifesaving number

LOC

What’s Your Emergency?

999

Delivered by the Royal Mail to the following towns and villages: Okehampton, Moretonhampstead, Chagford, Chichacott Stockley, Belstone, Bondleigh, North Tawton, Sampford Courtenay, Taw Green, Sticklepath, South Zeal, Throwleigh Wonson Lydford, Lewdown, Bridestowe, Gidleigh, North Bovey, Sourton, Meldon, Boasley Cross, Bratton Clovelly, Portgate, Lewtrenchard Also available at Waitrose, Okehampton

MAGAZ

Challenge yourself!

A Dartmoor walk rich in history with our Moorland Guide

CHARITY

Helping break the cycle of addiction, homelessness & crime

BLUE

CARBON

GARDENING

Gardening tips for late winter

What is it? Plus its role in climate change

MEET

the locals

Nominate your ‘Shero’ with Plymouth womens’ charity Trevi

• An up and coming Plymouth artist • A 91-year-old theatre fan & benefactor

Artist Richard Allman

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Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to Olijam Communications Ltd the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused by such material. The opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. All content is fully covered by copyright laws and reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.

FEATURE

Okehampton friends set up mental health podcast Five friends come together to talk about life, mental health and music A group of friends from Okehampton have set up their own podcast and online community as a way of tackling their mental health struggles – and they hope it will inspire others to reach out and not suffer in silence.

or depression. We want everyone who feels alone, crazy, different or scared of how they’re feeling, to be a part of the squad – it’s open for everyone and anyone. No prejudices or judgment.’

Jed Shilling, Tyler Harlow, brothers Jordan Hookway and Josh Hookway and Bradley Bishop formed community page Sadboy Squad after they each had a tough year with depression.

Talking is important

After a chat on Facebook, they found that by expressing how they were feeling out loud really helped and made them feel heard. ‘It made sense from here,’ said Jed, ‘to take a leap and spread that further to see if it would help other people in crisis

Running the podcast from a unit at Okehampton Music Studio, the hosts talk about anything and everything surrounding mental health – as well as other topics - and try to have as much fun on the podcast as possible. ‘We tend to “go with the flow”. We’ll meet up about half an hour before recording, have a little chat and catch up and just see what stems from there. People tend to reach out to us on

Annual Okehampton Town Assembly 7pm, Monday 28 March 2022 at the Charter Hall What is the Annual Town Assembly?

It is a meeting for the residents of Okehampton and it is an opportunity to find out what the Town Council has been doing and what its plans are for the forthcoming year, ask questions and speak with Councillors. During the meeting is it anticipated that there will be: A presentation by Dartmoor Search and Rescue An update from local Police Officers about the positive impact the installation of the CCTV system has had.

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FEATURE

Left to right are: Jordan Hookway, Jed Shilling, Bradley Bishop and Tyler Harlow.

Instagram with ideas and probably once or twice a week we will put a story up, asking our followers for topics they want us to discuss on the next episode.’ The friends all live in Okehampton. Jed and Tyler lived in London as children before moving to the town as teenagers and Jordan, Josh and Brad have lived in Okehampton and Folly Gate the majority of their lives. Their professions range from insurance advisor, co-owner of Idle at 3 West Street, head chef of newly formed restaurant ‘Brothers’ and night shift operators at Waitrose.

The most important thing for the group is being open and honest about their struggles and have said that the podcast has helped them ‘massively’. Jed added: ‘Myself and Jordan have had, shall we say, meltdowns since the podcast began. But knowing we could then share the experience, talk about it, rationalise it, made us feel liberated. Talking out loud seems so simple but it’s so effective. By throwing our experiences out for people to see, we hope it will make people more comfortable to go get help or talk about their emotions.’

Since their podcast was launched they have been amazed at the reviews.

‘We are still such a small group but we’ve had amazing feedback. ‘We have people message us most days on social media and it’s the best thing ever for people to feel strong enough to talk to strangers about their own issues – it’s so brave and exactly how we want to help, to show that it is okay to feel the way you do but know it’s not the end, there are answers and solutions out there.’ Lindsay Turpin

Listen now ‘Our latest episode of the podcast is out now on most streaming platforms. Please note, there is explicit content and swearing in these podcasts – we try to be as true and real as we are in “real life”. Have a listen, let us know what you think and come have a chat, if you ever feel like it. We’d love to hear from you,’ said Jed. To listen, visit www.buzzsprout.com/1857901

Local magazines for local people by local people. See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

LOCAL PEOPLE

Julie Yelland Looking out for the good of the community. November 20 it was my birthday and it was wonderful to see people so excited.’

Julie is best known for her dedication to Okehampton thanks to her commitment as a town and borough councillor. Starting her role as an Okehampton Town councillor in 2014, Julie was coopted after a vacancy had arisen due to a resignation. She successfully stood for election in 2015 and has never looked back. When she joined, her main goal was to be a driving force behind the launch of Okehampton’s Dartmoor Line (officially launched in November last year). In 2015, when she was elected, this was when OkeRail was formed to promote the reintroduction of the regular passenger service, and Julie said the whole experience was ‘very rewarding’. ‘Launching the Dartmoor Line was very exciting and it is very rewarding when you see a plan come together. I played a small part in that and it was very moving when the line was finally launched. When the first train left the station on 8

Beaming with pride, Julie said: ‘The community came together and achieved this and I know it will mean a huge amount for people to be able to go from and return to Okehampton but also for people to be able to visit the town by train. Yes, we have chain supermarkets but we have a wonderful selection of independent shops and eateries and what they offer is unique and not mass produced and we have lots of things to see and do, such as the Museum, Granite Way, Simmons Park and Dartmoor. ‘With the new train service up and running, I am very keen to see the new Parkway Station on the eastern edge of town built out. It is essential both to relieve traffic congestion through the centre of town and for those coming from further afield who wish to use the train to travel on to their destination. It was always part of the ambition of OkeRail to see this come to fruition and we will continue to work with all tiers of local government and our MP to bring it about.’ During her seven year period as a town councillor, Julie has also stood as town mayor for two years during which time she was able to experience every aspect of the town council life and meet many wonderful people.

‘I find being a councillor very interesting and informative as I get to meet lots of people from different walks of life and listen to very diverse opinions on all sorts of subjects.

‘I know the town and I know the area – I know it and I love it.’ Volunteering After spending several years working and volunteering for Citizens Advice, Julie became involved with setting up and establishing Okehampton Street Pastors and is the charity’s chairman. Street Pastors was pioneered in 2003 by Les Isaac when a group of church volunteers from South London went out on the streets to talk to people and try to make a difference to the volume of knife crime. Since then over 12,000 street and prayer pastors have been trained and play an active part in strengthening community life and working for safer streets. Street Pastors is run by Ascension Trust, a Christian inter-denominational organisation, whose mission is ‘to mobilise the Church to make a positive contribution to society and to improve the quality of life of the disadvantaged and vulnerable’. Okehampton Street Pastors was set up in February 2017 and volunteers provide care, help and listen to people who are out late at night in the town.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Alongside Okehampton Street Pastors, Julie is a trustee of the Simmons Park Charity, Okehampton United Charities and Okehampton Educational Foundation. ‘The one thing all these charities have in common is that the work they do directly benefits local residents who lives in Okehampton and the Hamlets including those out enjoying the night-time economy; visiting the award-winning park; using the services of any of our many and varied voluntary groups or having young people in our schools. ‘It is a real privilege to be able to be involved with these groups and have the opportunity to do my best to make a positive difference in our local community.’

ONE

Genealogy Julie grew up on a farm just outside Okehampton and has lived in Okehampton since she was married 40 years ago and has raised two children.

When she is not wearing her ‘councillor or volunteering hat’ Julie is keen to tackle her family’s genealogy as a way to unwind.

‘Hello Cousin’.

‘My grandmother’s surname on my father’s side had an unusual surname of “Hewerdine” and one day I got an ‘With being both a town councillor and email from Carol which said “Hello a West Devon Borough Councillor it is Cousin, lovely to meet you” which pretty busy, but when I do get some time was amazing. My father was an only off I enjoy researching my family tree. child and she sent a lot of information on my grandmother’s grandfather’s ‘I can spend hours researching and I find siblings who emigrated to America in it really interesting.’ the 1850s and fought in the Civil War. Funeral Directors I haven’t uncovered any dark family Julie hasn’t uncovered any links to Established 1850 secrets but I have managed to trace my Royalty (just yet) but one day she did grandmother’s side back to 1795, so far.’ receive an out of the blue email from a relative in America under the subject Lindsay Turpin

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LOCAL PEOPLE

The sky is the limit for Chagford Primary School ‘Our vision is to build a strong foundation for every child so they are well prepared for their life ahead’ Chagford Primary School’s principal Ed Finch explains that his goal is to make every child feel that they belong, that they matter and that they are valued for their unique qualities. Ed Finch is about to finish his first year as principal of Chagford Primary School and has made it his mission to make the school an integral part of the community. Ed came to Devon in January 2021, with his 15-year-old son Douglas, to work within the Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust but was subsequently asked to take on leadership at Chagford primary thanks to his wealth of experience. Prior to this, Ed lived in Oxford and had been teaching and taking a variety of leadership roles at a large primary school in a diverse inner city area in the east of Oxford. Before becoming a primary school teacher he taught in a secondary school in Ethiopia and taught English to business people in Poland and in Edinburgh.

A love for teaching began by accident ‘I stumbled into teaching rather than realising I wanted to be one,’ said Ed. ‘After a decade of building a career in a different field I needed a rest and took time out to teach in a secondary school high in the mountains in northern Ethiopia. It turned out that I loved teaching, I loved the daily interactions with pupils and colleagues, the satisfaction of seeing young people make progress and the chance to be creative each and every day. After my time in Ethiopia I worked for a while teaching in Poland, then in Scotland. Eventually I accepted my fate and became a “proper” teacher in a middle school in Oxford.

His variety of roles have moulded him into the perfect principal for Chagford; bringing his love of learning, music and art to the forefront of the children’s education.

Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust

‘There is a lot of history in the school and a great tradition in Chagford for music - I want to re-inspire and reinvigorate this love for music. We have three visions in the school: Community, challenge and care and we take the community aspect very seriously because when you are not part of the community you are only two dimensional. Being part of the community brings joy and love.’

‘We have a fabulous building and a wonderful community which is set within beautiful grounds. We are so blessed but I want to see this school singing to its full potential.

The DMAT was formed around four years ago and Ed praises the trust for protecting the school for its 150 pupils.

‘Our vision at Chagford Church of England Primary School is to build a strong foundation for every child so that they are well prepared for their life ahead. ‘We believe that every child needs to feel that they belong, that they matter, and that they are valued for their unique qualities. As we learn about who we are, our relationship to each other and to the wider world, we nurture strong values, underpinned by our Christian ethos, in order to bring about the best possible future for ourselves, our communities and future generations. At Chagford, our values inform our aims, and help us to be the very best that we can be.’ Chagford primary ‘should be the school of choice in at the area’

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LOCAL PEOPLE

‘We have an amazing community, great kids, terrific staff, a wonderful building and glorious grounds. I want love and creativity to sing out of this place so much so that people are clamouring to get their children in here. We have expanded to a full one form entry structure now so progression through the curriculum is much clearer and we can make sure each and every child is challenged to reveal their talents and reach their potential. The sky is the limit for Chagford Primary.’

The school is working with a range of creative people in the community and a professional theatre director to create a whole school production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ this summer. Ed added: ‘It’s going to be a wonderful way to bring the school and the community closer together.’ Lindsay Turpin

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NOTICEBOARD

Immerse yourself in Okehampton’s new gaming arcade The Old NatWest bank is back in use for the first time in five years thanks to Immersion. It has officially reopened as a new virtual reality gaming arcade called Immersion, featuring a wide range of experiences for all ages and interests with four high end virtual reality headsets, a range of games consoles, arcade machines, board games, memberships, clubs and more! Work began on the building in August 2021, with the stud walling that separated the public from the back of the bank being removed to open up the space. Stud walling was then put up to separate the virtual reality units into booths, the supported ceiling was then readjusted and re-supported, flooring was removed and replaced and the electrics were rewired and new plugs installed. The finishing touches included new internet systems installed and a complete repaint of the building. Once this work was complete all the new consoles, PCs, headsets and arcade machines were installed allowing the building to finally take shape and the ideas come to life. Immersion officially opened it’s doors in December allowing members of the public to come in and try virtual reality gaming allowing participants to pick from a wide range of games from swinging through the city as Spider Man, fighting off waves

of zombies or beating blocks to the music the wide range of genres allow something for everyone to experience. Virtual reality escape rooms have also been a big hit allowing participants to team up in groups of four to take on different challenges and escape different areas such as Egyptian pyramids or vast Aegean coastal caves. Or for those who like to take it a bit more casual and just relax, Immersion also offers escapism experiences allowing those that participate to escape to different worlds and see amazing things such as the Northern Lights or a calm relaxing beach. With Monthly memberships starting at just £15 it’s a great chance for the people of Okehampton to have access to a safe social space based around gaming.

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NOTICEBOARD

Gilead Foundations offers hope and provides a safe space for women Gilead Foundations offer a low-level support facility, for women with life controlling issues, such as, substance abuse, yet also for those with emotional difficulties such as depression. Its aim is to not only provide safe housing but to also support the women through the therapy and skills training required leading to future employment and ultimately change their lives for the better. Joanna Morgan from Gilead said: ‘We provide a safe space for women to heal and grow: our residents get involved with everything from milking to egg collecting, and we have a great horticulture and gardening programme – the ladies get to sow, cultivate, and eventually harvest and eat their own produce. ‘Last year we were fortunate enough to receive grant funding from Europe to run a Cooking 4 Life programme. Our ladies have enjoyed learning to cook new foods, to budget and receive teaching on nutrition, where required.’ One young mum staying with Gilead said: ‘I struggled with alcohol addiction in the past, and what I initially used to give me some Dutch courage to overcome my social anxiety, slowly turned into a full alcohol addiction with drunken binges. I was desperate to move out from my relatives and into independent living with my child and tried very hard to stay dry. I engaged with various organisations including a mentor to help me steer clear of alcohol, 14

Nutrition education

but the anxieties came back, especially when situations upset me, leading to more alcoholic binges, until I realised that I could not go on any more like that – it was affecting my child and seriously affecting my health. I was desperate to sort myself out. ‘Through a church contact, my community mentor found out about Gilead Foundations and gave them a call. One of the support workers at Gilead Foundations explained the process of working through the issues that cause the addiction. I like that we are learning to budget, learning about what is a healthy portion size, how our digestive system works and how important it is to eat a nutritional diet and what each nutrient does. I am still on my journey, but I have changed and look forward with hope to a new life with my child.’ As Gilead is situated on a working

farm and has many areas which need maintaining, the foundation is appealing for people to get involved and becoming a volunteer, especially those skilled in gardening, building, maintenance, or carpentry. A regular one day a week could make a huge difference.

Joanna continued: ‘We must rely on donations to continue providing the work experience and give support to our ladies. Gifts towards running costs and essential repairs would be very welcomed.’

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NOTICEBOARD

Armed Forces Veterans’ Breakfast Club Okehampton Armed Forces Veterans’ Breakfast Club is one of 300 breakfast clubs all over the world, providing an end to the isolation of veterans – the most common denominator in Armed Forces Veterans’ mental health issues and suicides. Okehampton’s club formed in October 2019, it started off with a dozen members, but Covid-19 restrictions prevented any meet-ups. Despite all the restrictions of 2020 and 2021, the word had been getting around about the Veterans’ Breakfast Club and there had been a number of enquiries from veterans from all the services thinking about attending. A chance comment at a November meeting led to the rapid planning of a

Christmas lunch, kindly hosted by Tina and Tony of Tina’s Kitchen. An excellent full roast dinner choice of either turkey or beef, followed by Christmas pudding with rum sauce and clotted cream was enjoyed by all attending. Some even managed seconds! After a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, they left to go their separate ways, but not before deciding that they had enjoyed themselves so much, they needed to plan similar events on a regular basis. Watch out for further reports in the future! If you are a military veteran, you are encouraged to go along and see what the club is about. There is always a warm welcome and a good breakfast served by Tina and Tony.

The next scheduled meeting will be Saturday, March 5 (although this is subject to any Covid restrictions that may be in place at the time). The regular meeting is the first Saturday of the month, meeting at Tina’s Kitchen between 9.30am and 11.30am. For more information, find the group on Facebook ‘AFVBCOkehampton’

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NOTICEBOARD

Meet the faces behind Okehampton United Charity Do you know who the trustees are of Okehampton United Charity? Do you know that there are 13 of them who work hard to support residents from the town and its hamlets? Three such trustees are the focus of this Oke Links’ local people section to provide faces to an organisation dedicated to the community. They provide support by awarding grants to local organisations and individuals with £357,399 awarded in 2021 alone - and by managing land including the allotments, the Community Garden (including the Men in Sheds project), Ball Hill and the recently acquired Tramlines Meadow. The trustees meet monthly, considering grants and agreeing the ongoing management of the charity. Allenton Fisher has lived in Okehampton for 17 years with Jean (his wife). Allenton said: ‘I have fallen in love with the town and surrounding area. After retiring as a Naval Officer I was a Postmaster culminating in running the

Okehampton branch for 10 years. We have 8 children, 13 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.’ Allenton is also involved with Rotary and Everything Okehampton and considers it an honour to be a trustee of Okehampton United Charity. Jenny Gibbons retired in 2017 from a teaching career in a university and decided to stay in the local area exploring the moorland by foot and on horseback. ‘I am privileged to have been able to join Okehampton United Charity, my role has taught me so much about Okehampton and its people. I am very grateful to have been able to learn so much from my hardworking colleagues and from the people who volunteer in the many organisations which help us in our effort to improve things for everyone who lives and works around Okehampton’. Last but not least, Philip Davies worked as a veterinary surgeon in Okehampton and Chagford until recently retiring. Philip has been the

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President of the Western Countries Veterinary Association and President of Okehampton and District Agricultural Show. He was a first team member and is now a Vice President of Okehampton Rugby Football Club together with being a previous Treasurer of Okehampton and District Round Table. Philip has three daughters Amelia, Harriet and Lily. Philip was nominated to become a trustee by Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council in 2021 and quickly immersed himself in the charity joining the property subcommittee and visiting local organisations who have received grants from the trustees in 2021.

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NOTICEBOARD

Trustees are looking forward to an exciting and challenging 2022, anticipating getting out and about more than they were able in the last two years, meeting many of the organisations and individuals they support. If you would like to know more about the charity, please visit the website www. okehamptoncharities.org.uk or call 07715 621480. • One highlight for the charity has been the successful securing of more than 33 acres of land in Okehampton. This land includes the beautiful Tramlines Bridleway and three other parcels of land. Some of the land will be used to enhance life in Okehampton by providing green space and routes from Okehampton to Dartmoor. The trustees will look to work with other local organisations to ensure the land is preserved for the benefit of residents, to develop the environmental features and enhance educational opportunities.

Andy is an inspiration This outstanding gentleman has raised an incredible £2,334 for North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (NDSART) what a hero. Even more impressive is that fact that Andy has done this by doing a sponsored cycle, on his therapy bike. A tremendous achievement. Along side us, he raised the same amount for the Stroke Association and Mardon. Andy enjoyed spending lots of time on the Moors and used to volunteer with the Ten Tors Challenge compliance team, before falling ill. Andy is hoping to make it back to the Moor this summer, via his wheelchair.

Altogether, Andy cycled 100KM, via ‘virtual checkpoints’ around the Moor. Some of the cycling was quite challenging (especially when the resistance was turned up to simulate some of the bigger hills!) but, Andy persevered! From all of us at North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team, thank you to Andy and to his wife Hazel, for her support and contacting us to let us know about Andy’s incredible achievement. NDSRT is solely funded by donations and receive no government funding. If you too would like to donate to help NDSRTvisit https://www.justgiving.com/ dartmoorsearchandrescue By NDSRT

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BUSINESS BUSINESS

Improve your skills and grow your business with free training SMART SKILLS has attracted £3.5 million of European Social Fund investment to help businesses in Devon to upskill their workforce and the unemployed to gain valuable new skills. This means that the wide range of training provided by SMART SKILLS is free of charge. Many people ﬁnd it hard to believe this claim, but all the courses are free and do not attract a charge – it means that you can upskill yourself and/or your workforce at no cost.

So why upskill? Upskilling your workforce will impact your business in several ways. It will boost productivity in your employees and drive growth in your business which can aid turnover and higher proﬁts. It will give you a clear competitive advantage over similar businesses. Investing in your employees will create a more able, fulﬁlled and happier workforce, crucially it will aid staff retention. All the training on offer is also available to unemployed individuals, so you don’t have to be a business owner or an employee to take advantage of these great courses. Developing your skill set will open up employment opportunities and improve your job prospects which can lead to higher salary offers.

What training courses are on offer? There are so many courses available that it would be hard to list them all here, but here

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are a few of the most popular courses that businesses and individuals want to undertake. Digital Marketing courses which include Digital Presence with Social Media, Email Marketing, Paid and Organic Search Engine Marketing and How to Measure Digital Marketing. Other in demand courses include Project Management, Coaching and Mentoring and Leadership and Management; all three courses are accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). There are a myriad of other courses to choose from, ranging from short courses through to full qualiﬁcations. Courses are taught either face-to-face or through live online sessions with experienced tutors, giving you the opportunity to learn in the comfort of your ofﬁce or home. Training is delivered through their quality delivery partners; City College Plymouth, Focus Training, Learn Devon, Petroc, South Devon College, On Course South West, and the University of Exeter. SMART SKILLS is led by Plymouth City Council and supported by Devon County Council.

If you are thinking of upskilling either for yourself or your company employees, then contact the SMART SKILLS Hub: 0800 97 55 111 (Select option 6) SMARTSKILLS.HUB@cswgroup.co.uk www.smart-skills-hub.co.uk

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Feedback from SMART SKILLS participants... “My workshop aims were to achieve a better understanding of LinkedIn, how to create successful posts, and attract followers to help gain new business. The Digital Presence with Social Media workshop from SMART SKILLS helped me achieve all of those aims.”

Alan, Not Just Travel “Thanks to the free Digital Marketing Workshops from SMART SKILLS, I feel more positive about work and how I can increase the brand awareness of my business and the services available. I feel empowered and have lots of exciting new ideas to implement to help my business continue to grow.”

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NOTICEBOARD

Become a police cadet in Okehampton Okehampton Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) are welcoming young people to join the unit. The Volunteer Police Cadet (VPC) scheme is run by a team of volunteer leaders and provides an opportunity to volunteer within the community whilst having fun and being able to develop skills and qualities that can be carried through life. Cadet sessions take place between 6.30pm to 8.30pm on a Thursday evening out of Okehampton Police Station during term times with the occasional weekend activities where possible. A police spokesperson said: ‘We are need support from Adult Volunteers with an interest in supporting young persons in our community! A Unit Leader helps support our cadet unit with sessions and activities, both at the station and out and in the community and it is a great chance to share your experience and qualities with the younger local community and give you

an insight into the Police environment. All leaders undergo Police Vetting and a DBS check along with safeguarding training to effectively help support the unit.’ For any enquiries, use social media or send an email to Oke. VPC@dc.police.uk

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NOTICEBOARD

National Parks are the beating heart of nature network Dartmoor National Park welcomes launch of Government consultation regarding the future of National Parks and AONBs Dr Kevin Bishop, DNPA chief executive, said: ‘We are pleased that the Government has issued its formal response to the independent Landscapes Review. ‘The review led by Julian Glover set out a compelling ambition to make our protected landscapes better for nature, climate and people. It is an ambition that we share and in which we have made a lot of progress. ‘Since the Landscapes Review was published, the world has changed; the pandemic has demonstrated the importance of connecting people with nature for health and wellbeing benefits and a bright light has been shone on the role protected landscapes play in dealing with the climate and ecological crisis we all face.’ He continued: ‘Dartmoor has just celebrated its 70th anniversary as one of the first National Parks to be designated

in the UK. It is the beating heart of a nature and habitat recovery network, trialling innovative practices, supporting biodiversity, tackling climate change and making the environment a better place for all. ‘We’re determined to keep this going but are experiencing sustained cuts to core funding with increased demands on our budgets.’ The Dartmoor National Park Authority will review the Government’s response against three key tests: • An end to austerity with adequate and sustained financial investment so we can build back better and lead the way towards a green recovery • Recognise the role that National Parks and AONBs are playing in tackling the three crises facing us: climate, ecological and public health and provide us with the tools and support to do even more in these areas. • Celebrate the fact that our National Parks and AONBs are global

models of how to manage living landscapes: integrating conservation, recreation and the needs of our local communities. ‘With the right resources and powers we can continue to welcome people to this amazing landscape for years to come, help our communities flourish and ensure we lead the response to the ecological, climate and public health crises,’ added Dr Bishop. The Authority is now considering the Government’s response in detail, liaising with partners and local communities and will, in due course, submit a formal response as part of the consultation. Donate for Dartmoor supports a variety of projects across Dartmoor. Donations of time and money are essential for the DNPA to be able to look after the heritage and wildlife of Dartmoor and to make it a place for everyone to enjoy today, tomorrow and for the future.

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NOTICEBOARD

Rangers to trial body worn cameras Dartmoor Rangers will trial the use of body worn video cameras in a bid to deter anti-social behaviour. Recommendations to introduce their use were unanimously approved by Dartmoor National Park Authority at its meeting in February. Rangers will be issued with the devices in March and will trial them for 24 months with a review after 18 months to evaluate their effectiveness. The primary aim of their use is to further protect their health, safety and welfare by reducing the risk of incidents of verbal and physical abuse towards them but, if necessary and appropriate to do so, could provide evidence to support legal action. The body worn video cameras will provide transparent and clear accounts of interactions between Rangers and members of the public. The camera, worn attached to Rangers’ uniform, will be clearly identifiable and will capture moving images and audio.

Alongside the Authority’s existing health and safety policies it will give them an extra layer of protection when they are at work. Their use is incident-specific. Rangers will turn the devices on in situations where they believe they may be subject to physical or verbal abuse or where someone is perceived as being threatening/aggressive towards them. They will always clearly announce they are turning on the device so people Now only know they’re being filmed.

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NOTICEBOARD

Museum seeks local entrepreneurs Since the opening of the GWR rail service on the Dartmoor Line the Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton has seen an increase in day visitors. In the last month over 10,000 people used the Dartmoor Line showing that day-trips are a real possibility. Next year will provide even more opportunities for day trippers, as the service becomes hourly. This presents many opportunities for the towns and businesses along the route of the Dartmoor Line. The Museum of Dartmoor Life is one of the places that wants to ensure they offer day visitors an exciting and stimulating visit so they learn more about Dartmoor, its history and people. It’s a small museum, with a wonderful group of volunteers that help keep the museum open, so they are looking for additional help from business professionals to deliver an ambitious new strategic plan. If you have a love of Dartmoor and would like to apply your professional skills to a worthwhile cause, then the Museum of Dartmoor Life offers an excellent opportunity to be involved in this transformational journey from a rural museum in Okehampton to one which is the primary gateway to exploring the whole of Dartmoor, its history and people. * Public relations - This role will be instrumental in transforming the public perception of a rural museum in

Okehampton to one which is the primary gateway to exploring the whole of Dartmoor, its history and people. • Digital - This role will be instrumental in enabling the museum to move into the 21st Century, to make use of technology to improve interpretation and the overall visitor experience. It will also support our goal of reaching beyond the physical constraints of the museum through digital engagement onto the Moor itself. • Digital Marketing - This role will be instrumental in enabling wider engagement with visitors - locally, nationally and internationally, and in reaching a more diverse and inclusive audience. • Income generation - This role will be instrumental in securing external funding such as grants and donations enabling the museum to deliver its strategic development goals and hence its growth from a rural museum in Okehampton to one which is the primary gateway to exploring the whole of Dartmoor, its history and people. Further details and the application are provided on Reach Volunteering, or for further information visit www.dartmoorlife.org.uk

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NOTICEBOARD

Enhanced scheme hopes to ease the local housing crisis West Devon residents are in line for a cash payout worth up to £5,000 if they downsize and free up their home for a family that is struggling in cramped conditions.

The scheme is designed to help tenants to downsize to smaller homes as their household needs change. For example, when children grow up and leave home. This, in turn, helps the Council to free up some of the larger homes in our area for younger families in need. The council has introduced an extra ‘High Demand Area’ payment of £2,500. This has been introduced due to the current shortage of larger family homes in the area. The total amount of money local people could receive depends on how many bedrooms are released by the move.

•

An additional ‘High Demand Area’ payment of £2,500

•

£500 per bedroom released.

For example, if you move from a fourbedroom property to a two-bedroom property you will receive £4,500. The maximum total amount you can receive is capped at £5,000.

The scheme is open to anyone currently renting a home that is bigger than they currently need through a housing association or social housing registered provider. It is hoped that a bigger cash incentive and practical support will help more people to make a move to ease the current housing crisis where there is a shortage of larger three- and four-bedroom homes available for local families.

Downsizers will receive:

•

Cllr Barry Ratcliffe, West Devon Borough Council’s lead member for housing said: ‘We desperately need to make some of our larger houses in the borough available for the local families who are currently struggling in homes that are too small. That’s why we’ve decided to give as much help as possible to anyone who is thinking about moving to a smaller home, for example because their own family has grown up and moved away. ‘Our team can give practical support with things like filling in forms for making the move. You’ll be given priority, so you can choose a new home in the location you want – including brand new homes on the most modern developments. Because of the current high need for family-size homes, we’re now offering an even bigger cash incentive to help those people who are thinking about making a move. You can spend the cash on anything you want – from a new TV for your new home and

A fixed payment of £1,000

Are an existing Housing Association tenant on an Assured tenancy, living in the West Devon Borough area and whose Housing Association landlord confirms that the nomination rights for the property being vacated will be given to West Devon Borough Council Are in a family sized house – 2 bedrooms or larger Want to move to a property that is at least 1 bedroom less Are registered on Devon Home Choice Where the move will not result in overcrowding

How to apply The scheme is limited and subject to change. Email devon.homechoice@ swdevon.gov.uk or call 01803 861234 to find out more and to apply for the available funding.

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CHARITY FOCUS

A charity focussed on the wellbeing of young people Tor Support is a small Okehampton-based charity providing a much-needed lifeline for the young people in the town. Established in 2009, Tor Support Services (TSS) is focused on providing free, confidential counselling for young people (5 to 25) who live in Okehampton and the surrounding villages — and in a typical year it supports around 120 young

clients in crisis, delivering well over 1,000 counselling sessions.

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Sophie Goodwin-Hughes, a trustee of TSS, said: ‘These local young people are dealing with issues ranging from anxiety and depression, self-harming,

behavioural issues, child abuse, relationship problems and mental health conditions through to substance misuse, gender dysphoria and even suicidal ideation. In consequence, a number also have poor school attendance resulting

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in a lack of educational achievement or hindered learning which can lead to poorer life chances.’ In 2011 TSS registered as a charity and re-registered as a charitable incorporated organisation in 2015 and is committed to a secure and sustainable long-term future. Counselling is provided by a team of employed and volunteer counsellors, who have undertaken extensive training in counselling or psychotherapy, and participate in on-going continuing professional development. ‘We are based alongside Okehampton College and work closely with all the local schools, medical centres and youth facilities,’ said Sophie. ‘Our referrals come from all these sources as well as from parents and a number of young people self-refer. Our small team of staff and paid and volunteer counsellors offer each individual up to eight counselling sessions.’ TSS has a team of around 16 people, including 5 volunteers, all supported by a board of trustees, who look out for the wellbeing of local young people. ‘There is nothing else like TSS,’ added Sophie. There is a huge need for our service as the NHS CAMHS (Child and

Adolescent Mental Health Service) has limited capacity and can only see only those very few children and young people with very severe mental health problems. Tor Support exists to help those who do not fulfil CAMHS strict criteria. We offer around eight sessions with the same counsellor in order to develop a relationship. We offer around eight free sessions with the same counsellor and work with each child or young person to help them understand their situation and build the strategies and resilience to help them cope in future.

present their card at the checkout and choose Tor Support as their charity. Thank you so much in advance for your support, it means the world both to us as a charity and to all the children and young people who desperately need our support in these challenging times.’

Despite having the support of many local organisations and charities such as OUC TSS is still struggling with funding but thanks to a local supermarket chain funds could soon be on their way to the charity.

• Alleviate emotional and psychological distress through professional counselling

‘In these difficult times we are experiencing both a significant increase in demand for counselling and a major increase in the level of competition we face for funding from our more usual sources so we were absolutely delighted to hear that Okehampton Co-Op has chosen us as one of their nominated charities for 2022.

Lindsay Turpin

Tor Support works directly with young people to:

• Improve quality of life, self-esteem, happiness and relationships • Help improve life chances and foster more positive adult lives

‘In order for us to benefit from this generosity Co-Op customers must

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Help out your local community and become a carer with NEDCare NEDCare is a care charity committed to the community which is on the lookout for equally dedicated people to join the team. NEDCare provides care at home in the local community, enabling clients who wish to remain in their own homes to do so for as long as possible. From ensuring care visits are never rushed, to paying staff for travel time in between clients, the company looks after both its clients and carers. Mags Naylor, NEDCare’s CEO, said: ‘This is a difficult time for the care industry, what with the implications of Covid and the changing government stance on social care, and we are struggling to offer support for everyone who needs it in our local community. Even if you’ve never considered a career in care before,

you could be just who we are looking for.’ NEDCare provides full training and ongoing support, and pays above the living wage, with enhanced rates for experience, evening and weekend work. It values the ethos of their carers over formal qualifications. NEDCare’s Registered Manager, Simon, added: ‘Your attitude, your values and why you want to make a difference to other people’s lives are the most important things to us.’ NEDCare has a range of hours available and can give flexible shifts to work around your

schedule. Simon continued: ‘Whether you want to work 4 or 40 hours per week, we can accommodate you. Just give us a ring to see if being a carer is right for you.’ For more information, call Simon on 01647 279211 or email info@nedcare. org or text NEDCare on 07484 545722 and they call you back within two hours.

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HEALTH

Autism. It’s a word we hear a lot, but do we truly understand it? Being autistic is not an illness or a disease. It’s not something that can be ‘cured’ but some people may find that they need help and support with certain things. Autism is a spectrum, meaning that every autistic person is different. It’s something that means that the brain works in a different way to others. No one knows if there is a cause to autism but it’s something that 1 in 100 people are born with.

Autistic people may: •

Have difficulty communicating with others

•

Struggle to understand how people think or feel

•

Like to have a structured routine Find stimuli, like bright lights or loud noises, overwhelming

•

Have heightened anxiety in unfamiliar situations

Knowing is key in supporting autistic people Getting to know their routine, favourite foods and interests will help you understand them more and help them feel understood and less alone. If you can also learn their triggers, you might be able to help them avoid a meltdown. Triggers will vary from person to person, but some common ones include crowded spaces, loud overlapping noises or bright lights.

Meltdowns When an autistic person is at their limit, they may have a meltdown. Meltdowns are described as “the loss of an emotional filter from the pain or exhaustion that overexposure to triggers cause, and the loss of temper in response to that”. If someone is temporarily non-verbal, irritable, or slow to respond to interactions, these might be signs of a possible meltdown. There are a few ways to help someone during a meltdown. You can calmly ask them if they want to remove themselves from the triggering situation. Or, if they have anything that helps reduce the sensory overload, such as noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, or fidget devices, which could help take some of the stress away, you could suggest trying these.

the wrong way by people who do not fully understand this trait of autism. Try to be understanding and assume they probably didn’t mean to offend you but tell them if they have and why.

Would you like to know more? You can visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/ autism/ or the National Autistic Society for more information and support.

Being Direct A lot of issues with autistic people begin with misunderstandings. They may take a polite suggestion or hint to do something as just a casual conversation. You need to be honest, transparent and clear when communicating with them, for them to understand exactly what you want and need.

Bluntness Autistic people tend to struggle to read a room. This sometimes leads to them possibly coming across as blunt or rude, and this can often be taken

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HEALTH

Charity project looks for volunteers to help people get online A new charity partnership project is looking for volunteers across Devon to help people at risk of isolation and loneliness benefit from digital technology. During the Covid-19 pandemic, many people relied on digital technology to help with everyday things like getting food, accessing healthcare and keeping in touch with family and friends. However, for those unable to use or access digital, these lifelines were cut off. While measures like lockdowns may be at an end, the pandemic exposed the scale of digital exclusion with 10-million people across the UK still lacking basic digital skills. A partnership of organisations from across Devon, including Devon Communities Together, Wellmoor, Teignbridge CVS and NetFriends have come together to train up digital befriending volunteers to tackle digital exclusion. Ruth Donaldson, a digital inclusion worker at Teignbridge CVS, said: ‘A survey commissioned by the Torbay and South Devon NHS Trust found that people most at risk from digital exclusion are older people, people in poverty and disabled people

– those who already face additional barriers to accessing everyday services. ‘Volunteer befriending is a relaxed and community-focused way to help people gain the digital skills they need to enhance their lives. Volunteers don’t need technical skills or expert digital know how and can make a huge difference by giving just a few hours a week.’ Volunteers will be offered flexible training and have a team of tech experts on hand to help them, provided by local group NetFriends. The project is running until March so volunteers are encouraged to get in touch as soon as possible. Contact Katie on 01647 440775 and email katie@wellmoor. org.uk to find out more.

Do you want to become more confident online? Our fully-trained volunteers can offer FREE help with using your computer, tablet or smartphone in Okehampton and surrounding areas. We can also repair or upgrade your existing device. The Digital Inclusion Partnership is helping to combat digital exclusion amongst the rurally isolated population in Devon. To find out more contact Katie on katie@wellmoor.org.uk, Ruth on ruth@teigncvs.org.uk or call 01647 440775.

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Bluebird Care West Devon

introduces new Night Care service In addition to a successful live-in service, local care company Bluebird Care has begun to oﬀer Night Care, a new home service in West Devon. Local registered manager Chloe Pearce says: “Our Night Care at home service is an essential part of our oﬀering at Bluebird Care West Devon. Our dedicated team of people work through the night, so that our customers can feel and remain well supported and cared for whatever the time.”

There are various ways night care carers can help, here are just some: • • • • • • •

Extra security and peace of mind Support with medication prompting and administering through the night Assisting with bathroom visits Helping to change position in bed, particularly after an operation or injury Support for progressive conditions such as dementia Night carers can give regular carers a break overnight Night care is suitable for end of life

Director William Flint says: “With increasing numbers of adults living at home for longer, often far away from families, receiving care at home is a sensitive proposition that should be seen as a privilege and respectfully handled by their chosen care provider. We are dedicated in supporting people to remain as independent for as long as possible and our team of Devon Bluebirds are immensely proud to be delivering care in people’s homes every day and every night”.

Bluebird Care West Devon oﬀer two types of night care: Sleeping Night The care assistant sleeps at the property for a minimum of eight hours and is on hand if required. This option will suit if you don’t require regular support but feel uncomfortable when left alone throughout the night. Anxieties and sleep deprivation can soon be improved with a sleeping night care professional there. Having that extra night care at home can really help people remain healthy and happy.

Waking Night The care professional is on duty throughout the night for a minimum of eight hours. This is the best support option for a person who wakes several times, perhaps being disorientated or needing to go to the bathroom.

For more information on this ‘outstanding’ service, scan the QR code or call us for a friendly chat.

01822 678111 westdevon@bluebirdcare.co.uk bluebirdcare.co.uk/west-devon 32

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BUSINESS

Reef Passion Μεράκι (Meraki) is the Greek word for passion – fervour, zeal, affection, ardour, devotion. Hence the name Reef Passion. We stock a large range of fully quarantined marine fish, corals, and all the equipment you need, to maintain a healthy reef. Our aim is not just to have a successful business though, but to create a home for the passionate hobbyist - a place where the same zeal and devotion are shared with home reef-keepers. Sustainability is our target: we aim to provide coral and fish from sustainable sources, and create UK based coral colonies, that will ultimately become the self-reproducing foundation of a home marine aquarium – as well as eventually developing hardy corals that could go back to ocean reefs and reinvigorate the natural environment that our global climate is damaging. Coral reefs cover 1% of the oceans of the world, but provide a home for 25% of the ocean’s inhabitants. This is a resource of unique value, and crucially, it is worth protecting. These reefs are the ‘canary in the cage’ warning system for our planet. The team at Reef Passion has 82 years of experience in caring for fish and coral. Μεράκι (Meraki) is the basis of our business - providing practical, in-depth and comprehensive support to those who share the same fervour and devotion to preserving this complex,

intricate and beautiful part of our unseen oceans. If you would like to play a part in sustaining this most incredible and astonishing ecosystem, the staff are delighted to share their knowledge and always keen to hear from other supporters so we can all combine our efforts in working towards the same outcome. Being able to help perpetuate these valuable gems of the sea is a real privilege for us. From the basics, to the complexities of chemistry and biology, it can be as easy or as difficult as you want it to be - from looking after the soft corals such as zoanthids (zoas) and clove polyps, through to hard corals such as acropora. We can provide you with all the tools you need, so you can enjoy the thrill and excitement that comes from watching these corals grow, expand and reproduce. The planet’s ecosystems hang in the balance. If we all use our knowledge effectively and share our passion, we can help preserve the reefs of the world whilst experiencing the satisfaction of a reef at home. At Reef Passion Ltd, as the name suggests, we are enthusiasts and experts. Tavistock may seem an unlikely location to discover such a rare and unusual business, but we are very welcoming and friendly, so why not pay us a visit and feel the passion.

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Looking for a feeling of family and belonging? We can offer: • A daily programme of activities and entertainment • Nutritious home cooked foods and regular themed menus • Easily accessed lakes, natural meadows and woodland • Treatment room for hairdressing, chiropody, manicures, pedicures and massage • Wireless internet access for everyone • CQC Rated GOOD

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GARDENING

Take a journey through the history of the cherry blossom with RHS Rosemoor Spring is the time for blossom - and the most beautiful must be that of the cherry. The Japanese have appreciated cherry blossom for many centuries but has only taken the world by storm since the early 20th century. This was largely through the efforts of one man - Collingwood ‘Cherry’ Ingram who also happened to be great friends with Lady Anne Palmer; she gifted Rosemoor estate to the RHS in 1988. After Japan began to open up to the world in the 1860s, following two centuries of self-imposed isolation, there followed a craze for anything Japanese and Ingram was soon drawn in. He started travelling in Japan at the age of 21 when his main interest lay in ornithology. His passion with Japanese cherries was sparked when he bought an estate in Kent, which included a garden with two cherry trees; this was highly unusual at the time. Later, he declared that ‘there are to be found among the Cherries some of the most lovely trees in the world’. Ingram introduced about 50 different Japanese cherries to Britain and he was the first person in the world to hybridise them artificially, creating his own varieties. ‘Cherry’ Ingram is probably best known for re-introducing Prunus ‘Tai-haku’ AGM to Japan. In the spring of 1923, he was invited to visit a garden in Sussex where the owner was growing several varieties of cherry, one of which he had never seen before. Although it was in poor condition, Ingram took some material for propagation. The ‘Great White Cherry’ is now cultivated throughout the world. He planted a small tree at Rosemoor himself, near the Stone Garden, where it has grown into a magnificent specimen much loved by staff and visitors alike. In 1925, Ingram was visiting a cherry tree expert in Japan and was shown a painting from around 1700 and within the scene

Prunus ‘Tai-haku’ AGM Claire Cambell

there was a representation of a cherry tree, which could not be mistaken for anything other than Prunus ‘Tai-haku’ with huge snow-white blossoms and rich copper-red young foliage. He was informed that it was extinct and Ingram was excited to be able to reintroduce this ‘most beautiful of all the white cherries’ to its country of origin. As a nation, Japan’s obsession with cherry blossom (Sakura) culminates in the custom of Hanami, which involves partying beneath the trees, dating back to at least the 3rd century AD. The ‘cherry blossom front’ is tracked as it moves northward beginning in the far south during January, reaching Tokyo at the end of March/ early April and ending at the northernmost point a few weeks later. Rosemoor has planted cherry trees as part of the Sakura Cherry Tree project which celebrates UK-Japan co-operation and friendship. Some 6500 trees planted throughout the UK will create spectacular spring displays of blossom for many years to come. Rosemoor continually adds to its cherry tree

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GARDENING

Increase the watering of houseplants Tim Sandall.

collection throughout the garden, enhancing the blossom display year on year. This year, to coincide with cherry blossom time, Rosemoor is holding a Japanese weekend from March 19 to 20, celebrating Japanese culture. Visit rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on for more information.

Gardening jobs for March and April: In March, plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes. Plant summer flowering bulbs such as lilies and Gladioli, which can provide dramatic, tall scented blooms. In the borders, aim to plant in groups of at least 6 but to make a real impression 25-50 bulbs may be needed. Cut back Cornus and Salix from late March to mid-April for colourful winter stems. It is important to prune in the dormant season as the plant resources in the roots are used for the vigorous regrowth.

Lilium ‘Casablanca’ planted in a large group in the border Christine Skelmersdale

In April, you can start sowing hardy annuals, herbs and wild flower seed outdoors. In milder regions, sowing can begin earlier than in colder parts of the country. Light soil also allows you to sow earlier than heavy, damp soils as it warms up more quickly. If a late frost is predicted, protect the flowers and buds of top fruit and soft fruit. Use fleece to cover soft fruit bushes. Strawberries can be protected with cloches or a double layer of fleece as can small fruit trees. Don’t forget to remove it during the day to allow pollinators access. Increase the water given to houseplants. Only water when the surface of the compost becomes dry, also, if the pot feels light, then it is in need of water. Plants in a cool room will need watering less often than those in a warm room. Allow them to drain thoroughly and then empty any water-filled saucers. Sheila Dearing RHS Rosemoor

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EDUCATION

Oaks Montessori Exploring Life! Oaks Montessori opened its doors last autumn and is now enjoying its second term following its ethos of exploration. The school, situated in Gidleigh, has access to Dartmoor on the doorstep which proves to be a wonderful location for children to learn. Oaks has an early elementary class for children aged 5 (reception year) to 6. A lower elementary class for ages

6 - 9 and an upper elementary for age 9 - 12. The class sizes are small and its teachers are committed to providing an excellent level of care and education based on the teaching philosophy of Maria Montessori. Alongside the Montessori curriculum it also provides weekly art, music, dance, sport and drama lessons. Through her observations, Maria Montessori recognised that all children learn most effectively through doing. With this in mind she created specially designed equipment and resources to foster independence and facilitate that inbuilt desire in every child to learn and explore. ‘As we observe children, we see the vitality of their spirit, the maximum effort put forth in all they do, the intuition, attention and focus they bring to all life’s events, and the sheer joy they experience in living,’ said Maria Montessori.

Montessori schools offer a vibrant, broad and holistic curriculum where academic and non-academic subjects, as well as personal/social development, are equal and there is a balance between indoor and outdoor learning. Children learn at their own pace, from real objects and there is a strong emphasis on respect for each other, the planet and all things living on it. Montessori classrooms offer a prepared environment where children are able to access everything themselves, a beautiful, harmonious environment based on nature and full of exciting and interesting learning experiences. This environment promotes freedom of choice and movement. There are quiet places to read, areas to learn and work with friends, a teacher or alone, places to create, to eat and relax both indoors and outdoors. Each curriculum area has its own, specialised Montessori teaching materials, which are child-sized and functional. All subjects are learnt through discovery and exploration with concrete experiences which assists children to grow into capable people who have a strong sense of self and the ability to connect and collaborate with others and the planet. For more information, or would like to arrange a visit, visit www. oaksmontessori.co.uk or email oaksmontessoridartmoor@gmail.com

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EDUCATION

The Morris Family Forest School Shelter Visitors are stunned when they visit Boasley Cross Primary School, a school within Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust. People are talking far and wide about the amazing shelter which was created by the Morris Family. The shelter has carved posts, wooden mushrooms and owls plus field mice to spot amongst the beautiful design. The floor is covered in bark chippings, there are rustic tables for the children to make crafts on, log seating and a fire pit. The pupils of Boasley Cross Primary are lucky enough to be able to use the shelter all year round; from outdoor lessons to enjoying the fire pit and sharing stories. Some of their favourite activities have been toasting marshmallows whilst sitting together around the fire, making crafts like reindeers, hedgehogs, bug hotels and bird boxes. The older children are encouraged to help the younger ones, and everyone knows the importance of safety.

This kind of outdoor space is particularly important during the recent challenging times when children have emerged from lockdown needing that outdoor space and innovative approach to learning. Lorraine Simmons HLTA and Forest School Leader at Boasley Cross Primary School said: ‘We are truly thankful to the Morris Family and everyone else who has made this structure possible. We use the shelter 3 or 4 times a week during lesson times and in after school clubs. Research has shown a strong link between mental health and wellbeing and spending time in the outdoor environment. Boasley Cross Primary offers regular Forest School sessions to all age groups. Without the kindness of the local community, projects like this and the Sensory Garden would not be possible.’

New school plans receive overwhelmingly positive response Plans for a specialist social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) school in Dartmoor have received glowing praise from the community. The Promise School, due to open its state-of-the-art campus in September 2023, is being developed by Dartmoor MultiAcademy Trust (DMAT). In line with guidance from the Department for Education (DfE), the trust ran a public consultation on these plans, which came to a close shortly before Christmas. Respondents noted that ‘the school is desperately needed in our area,’ and that it was ‘good to see that a trust which has expertise in SEND is leading on the development of the school’. This positive sentiment was also expressed during in-person information events held by the trust, with one attendee noting that ‘here was a clear moral imperative coming through… that was very reassuring about wanting to get this right for the children of Devon’. The trust also received a wide array of constructive and useful feedback from the process, which will now be explored and put into action by the school’s new Principal Designate,

Ms Tracy Ashton. Tracy joins the school with a wealth of experience, having worked in Lipson Cooperative Academy as Senior Deputy Head for Inclusion for over 20 years. While work on the new site is being completed, a small number of students will be made at home in two of DMAT’s other academies; St James’ Primary and Okehampton Community College. The students will have a dedicated space on each site during the 2022/23 Academic Year, meaning they are fully welcomed into the DMAT family of schools during their first year with the school. Ms Ashton said: ‘I am hugely excited to get underway in this role, and to build upon the positive momentum which this project has already generated. Our consultation results highlight the comprehensive plans which the Trust have put in place, and I am looking forward to working closely with everyone in the community to bring this much-needed school to life.’

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SPORT

Rugby players destined for greatness Connor competed at the Lambs’ Chairman’s Day as part of the South/ South West Squad who played against the North and East Squads in a round robin tournament. He was selected for the National team from 80 players including boys from rugby powerhouses such as Millfield and Whitgift and will play a number of fixtures against opponents including the Irish Exiles and Crawshay Welsh Club.

Shebbear College is delighted to announce the achievements of its Rugby players. The school, which has always had a passion and a strength for the sport, has seen Sixth Former Connor Macmillan selected for the England Lambs U18 National Rugby Squad, as well as its U14 team win the North Devon Cup!

Head, Caroline Kirby said: ‘Shebbear College is no stranger to the Lambs with players historically being selected to play on the team, but after a two year break due to Covid, the boys haven’t been able to enjoy the same level of training or fixtures as they have done previously so I am especially proud of Connor for this fantastic achievement!’

ORFC new players Okehampton Rugby Football Club is on the look out for new players. Are you in Year 8? Are you interested in playing rugby for the U13s? Would you like to bee part of a team? All new players will be warmly welcomed. The club trains on Friday nights 6pm to 7pm. For more information call 07900198113

Meanwhile, the school’s U14 Rugby Team are the winners of the North Devon Cup following the cup final vs Braunton Academy. The team now go through to the County Cup semi-finals.

Okehampton Simmons Bowling Club welcomes new members A club designed for socialising and for all levels of fitness is preparing to open once again.

competitions between the members of the club, so there are always plenty of opportunities to play.

Okehampton Simmons Bowling Club is soon to open its outdoor green and new and experienced bowlers are being encouraged to join in the action.

On Tuesday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm they have a popular ‘roll up’ where new and experienced players can a fun session of bowls and on Friday from 2pm to 4pm.

The team holds friendly games against neighbouring clubs and competitive games, men, ladies and mixed. In addition, they have various ‘in-house’

only request is players wear flat soled shoes. The green opens on April 9 so feel free to visit and chat and, weather permitting, have a go at bowls. Any queries contact President Roger Pedrick on 01837 53113.

On Wednesday mornings from 11am to 12.30pm coaching for beginners is available, all equipment is provided, the

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SPORT

Cash boost to support local wellbeing Sports clubs and local community groups in Okehampton are set to receive a large sum of money thanks to West Devon Borough Council Section 106 funding. The money was secured as part of housing development projects being delivered in the towns.

the all-weather pitch at Okehampton College.

The local projects that have received funding will all make it easier for people to get outside and active. Ranging from a scheme to enhance the outside space at the Ockment Centre to the Town Council’s plans for a new zip wire in Simmons Park, each project will make a difference to community wellbeing every day.

West Devon Borough Council lead member for health and wellbeing, Cllr Tony Leech, said: ‘It’s great to see these projects helping more local people of all ages to get active and outside. With this money, these groups will be able to deliver the facilities that local people need and make a positive difference to wellbeing across the community.’

A Section 106 agreement (s106) is an agreement between a developer and the local planning authority. It secures measures that the developer must take to reduce their impact on the community. In this case, it applies to financial contributions to provide infrastructure for the community.

West Devon Borough Council Mayor, Cllr Caroline Mott added: ‘We want to make West Devon a place to inspire and a place to succeed. By securing s106 funding when larger developments get the go ahead, we can make sure that our communities get the investment in the high-quality facilities they need to thrive. We can give people the opportunity to try new things or continue to enjoy favourite activities regardless of changes to mobility.’

The projects benefiting from the latest round of s106 funding are: Ockment Centre - £4,150 for their project to provide replacement and additional outside furniture (to include wheelchair access recycled picnic benches) in the garden of the Centre. Okehampton Community Garden - £570 for their project to purchase storage shelves and lockers for equipment for well-being and outdoor activities and for people to keep personal belongings. Okehampton Town Council - £5,000 towards the £16,000 project to replace the zip wire in Simmons Park. Okehampton Community and Recreation Association (OCRA) - £8,000 towards their £16,000 project to rejuvenate

Okehampton Community and Recreation Association (OCRA) are one of the groups receiving funding. The money will be used to rejuvenate the allweather pitch at Okehampton College. The pitch is a hub for community sport in the town and is used by sports clubs aimed at all ages and abilities, including walking football and hockey. Ian Blythe Okehampton Community and Recreation Association (OCRA) General Manager added: ‘The funding received from West Devon Borough ensures that opportunities for local clubs should now not be impacted by the weather, it truly

is now an all-weather surface. ‘The rejuvenation provides a wonderful surface for the local hockey and football clubs to utilise whilst giving OCRA the scope to broaden our programme for the local community which now includes social football and an after school opportunity each Friday. ‘The pandemic has caused interruptions in bookings for the all-weather pitch as clubs and groups battled with lockdowns and restrictions around their activities meaning our finances took a hit but the local authority support and funding has enabled us to complete the work on the all-weather pitch meaning OCRA can bounce back quicker and stronger to do what we do best, getting the community active.” Local sport facility needs change, for example when new developments in our towns and villages increase the number of residents in the area. The council has a playing pitch strategy in place to make sure there is a good supply of high-quality playing pitches to meet current and predicted future needs. Identifying local need and securing s106 funding and other grants for local sports clubs is a core part of this strategy. Residents’ views are currently being sought for a new plan for the next 13 years (to 2034). You can read the draft strategy and have your say at www.engagement.westdevon.gov.uk/ pitch-perfect-for-west-devon You can also email parks@swdevon.gov. uk with your feedback.

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FARMING

Supporting farming and land mangers on Dartmoor If you are a farmer or land manager on Dartmoor you can apply for funding to support conservation and socialeconomic projects. The programme is called ‘Farming in Protected Landscapes’ (FiPL) and was launched in July 2021 and will run until March 2024. FiPL is a DEFRA funded programme which awards grants of between £2,000 to over £100,000 awarded through a farmer-led local panel; people who understand the challenges and the opportunities. Grants are awarded for projects that:

• Support nature-friendly, sustainable farm businesses • Support nature enhancement • Tackle climate change • Provide opportunities for people to discover, enjoy and understand the landscape and its cultural heritage There is around £1-million to award for projects delivered on Dartmoor in the next two years. Dartmoor National Park Authority has been working to make it

simpler for people to share their ideas and apply for funding, it now has a very short ‘expression of interest’ form and the team is keen to have no obligation chats about project ideas. The team can advise on what makes a successful application and help you develop your proposal. FiPL is designed to sit alongside and complement existing funding agreements.

Farm for the Future The Dartmoor Hill Farm Project (DHFP) is one of eleven organisations around the UK delivering the Farm for the Future programme, on behalf of the Prince’s Countryside Fund. This aims to support farmers through the current transitional phase of Agricultural Policy, to understand the scale of financial impacts from the withdrawal of Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and how to adapt or benefit from these changes eg. identifying how to add value to produce, consider diversification, or incentives for the delivery of environmental goods which Dartmoor is well placed to enhance.

livestock farmers which can help them to assess their own enterprise, consider how to make efficiencies or reshape their family business, and capitalise on new emerging schemes. Ultimately the programme supports farmers to review their farm business, identify and address any potential weaknesses which may be exacerbated from a reduced BPS income, and take proactive steps for a stronger, more resilient future.

Across Dartmoor more than 50 farm businesses have taken part in this programme since the autumn, starting with introductory meetings followed by specific events delivered by Farm Business and Environmental consultants. These aim to highlight steps that are relevant to the predominantly upland,

Across the UK the ambition is to work with 1,000 farm businesses via this programme, and demonstrate the potential for further future work.

This free programme has worked with the farmers to develop a series of next stage workshops based on their chosen interests.

The Dartmoor Hill Farm Project has been running since 2003, designed to provide support, advice and training opportunities which reinvest into the

local farming community for long term sustainability. Following Covid restrictions, there is a drive to reengage in the coming months with a number of activities and a refresh of resources – the aim being to expand coverage and representation across Dartmoor, into and well beyond its 20th Anniversary. Please contact hfp@dartmoor.gov.uk for any enquiries or visit the website: Dartmoor Hill Farm Project | Support for Dartmoor farmers

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FARMING

Which bull will it be? Hello again everyone. This month something different, I hope. On the farm we have some great bulls doing a good job and haven’t needed to buy a new one for a while, but because the bulls we have all have daughters that are old enough for breeding we have identified the need for new blood. The next problem is where to source the new bull. There are different options but every February in Stirling, Scotland, is the premier annual bull sale. Because we are after a high performer to improve our herd I took the decision to go to this sale looking for a bull. The first time I have been by myself. I worked at Farmer Luxtons shop on Saturday morning and flew from Bristol to Glasgow in the evening. Sunday morning I had a lovely time watching the best bulls in the country being prinked, preened and paraded in front of a judge and many potential purchasers and spectators. When looking for a bull everyone has their own check list. In my opinion the most important is the physical form of the animal, namely height, length and muscularity. In theory that is easy to select but when 150 animals go by its not as easy as you think. They also need good ‘locomotion’, if an animal doesn’t move correctly in time his feet or joints will play up and he will not be fit for his job. Animal health is a major consideration. Breeders are usually enrolled in a health scheme, tests are carrier out on the herd at home and a level of risk is displayed at the point of sale. You do not want to import disease into your prized animals at home. Fertility might also be an issue, some bulls are tested and sold with a fertility certificate. So to recap we need eye candy, physical form, good movement good health and fertility. Now things start to get complicated.

Every bull offered for sale has a full family tree, verified by genetic testing, you don’t want the same genetics that you already have. Whilst this is being done they are also tested for undesirable genes (which are displayed in the sale catalogue). Every bull also has published a list of predictions on how he or his daughters should perform compared to the breed average. Calf size is very important, if the offspring is too big the cow wont be able to give birth naturally, there are figures for growth rate of the offspring, how much milk the daughters might give and the meat quality any yield. When all this information has been assimilated a purchaser will have a short list of bulls. As I am writing this on Sunday evening I have a short list. I might not sleep much tonight due to the excitement of what tomorrow might hold. I keep trying to tell myself that I will be happy with any bull on my list, which I will, but the truth is I like one or two more than the others. That brings us to budget, will I be able to afford my first choice, or my second for that matter. Will it be Dean Martin, Will it be Jacobite, will it be Ebony? I’m so sorry but my deadline is tonight and the sale is tomorrow so I will let you all know next time…. If you cant wait pop into the shop, I would love to tell you all how it ended up. Stuart Luxton

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WHAT’S ON

Events at Okehampton Library March March 3 from 3.45pm to 4.45pm World Book Day Tea Party. Dress up as your favourite book character (optional), join in our fun tea party with light refreshments, party games and prizes. Free event, suitable for ages 5+, numbers limited so it is essential to book in advance March 4 to April 1, 10am to noon Beeline for digital skill course Friday. This 10-hour course will give you the basic digital skills you need in today’s online world. Free course, booking essential. Book with Learn Devon on 01822 61370. Course code ITB818

March 11 to 20 - British Science Week: March 15 at 7pm - ‘Interconnected Okehampton Wildlife’. A talk by Matt Parkins who is a woodland naturalist and conservationist. Matt will talk about how the interconnectedness of nature and the natural world around us can draw us together. The wonderful world of nature is something we humans are a part of, and can make a positive difference which is healing to both wildlife and ourselves. Tickets £3 each in advance or £3.50 at door, to include refreshments.

March 16, 10am to 10.15am Science Week Storytime Free, no booking necessary. March 21 to 24 - Discovery Screen Film Festival Showings. A selection of exceptional hand-picked films showing in libraries across the county throughout March. You can enjoy exclusive viewings of culturally diverse films across Devon, away from the big screens. Discovery Screens is organised by Libraries Unlimited, through its Evolve

programme. Okehampton Library will be screening: Monday 21: Minari (12a). Doors open at 6.30pm, film starts at 6.45pm. Wednesday 23: The Father (15). Doors open at 2.30pm, film starts at 2.45pm. Wednesday 23: Sweetheart (15). Doors open at 7pm, film starts at 7.15pm. Thursday 24: Another Round (12a). Doors open at 7pm, film starts at 7.15pm. Tickets: £3 adult, £2 students/child. Bookable through Eventbrite.

Booking in advance is essential. MTel: 01837 52805 Email: okehampton. library@librariesunlimited.org.uk Knit & Natter - Tuesdays 1.30pm to 2.30pm - Bring along your knitting, stitching, crochet or other portable craft project, for a chat with like-minded crafters. Tea and coffee available at 70p a cup. Bounce & Rhyme - Tuesdays 10am to 10.20am and 11am to 11.20am Suitable for under 5s. Free. Booking Essential.

April

Duplo Builders & Storytime Wednesdays 9.30am to 10.15am - suitable for ages 0-5 years. Free. No booking necessary.

April 11, 11am to 11.45am - Easter Craft. Free activity for ages 5+. Bookable in advance.

Lego Builders - Saturdays 10.30am to 11.30am - Suitable for ages 5+. Free. No booking necessary.

April 11 to April 23 - Easter Hunt. Find all the eggs hidden around the library. Free event during opening hours.

The Secret Book Quest

Contact the library for more details.

April 13, 10am to 10.15am - Easter Storytime Free, no booking necessary.

Regular library events Digital Fridays – by appointment A member of staff will be on hand to assist with digital devices. Whether you are a complete beginner or just need a few tips, book a short session for help with your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

A completely FREE year-round reading challenge for 5-12 year olds across Devon. To take part, children need to sign up, read 50 books, collect stickers and solve the code. Children under 8 must be accompanied to all events by a responsible adult Please see the library’s website or Facebook page for any additional events and library services www.devonlibraries. org.uk

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WHAT’S ON EXTRA

What’s on in your area March

helping to raise funds for local charities. The Inner Wheel Club looks forward to seeing you there.

March 5 Sampford Courtenay Village Hall - Big Breakfast from 8.30am to 10.30am. Full English breakfast £7.50. Reserve your seats by calling Nicky 01837 880300 or email nickyvhmc@gmail.com

March 12 Barn Dance at Sampford Courtenay Village Hall, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets available from secretaryvhsc@ gmail.com at £12.50 each, to include a hot sausage in a roll plus salad. Desserts at extra cost plus licensed bar.

March 15 Dr Compost Talk and Q&A. Tuesday, March 15, 5pm to 6.30pm via Zoom. To celebrate National Composting Week Proper Job will be hosting this online session, where you will learn how to recycle your own garden and food waste to make beautiful fertile compost to feed your garden. To find out more go to www.proper-job.org/events

March 19 Come, buy and chat at Sampford Courtenay Village Hall from 10.30am. Tea/coffee and cake plus a selection of stalls.

March 26

be by The Mariners Way. Ticket price will include a two-course, hot buffet by Oaktree Occasions. Licensed bar. 7pm for 7.30pm start, For more information, contact

Regulars Every Sunday morning. Okehampton Rambling Club.

Proper Job, Spring Wreath Making from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, March 26. Bellacouche Studio, Chagford. Celebrate Mother’s Day by making a spring wreath using recycled materials. To find out more go to www.proper-job.org/events.

Meet at Okehampton Post Office ready to leave by 9.30am. Varied walks of between 7 to 9 miles, moorland, coastal, countryside. Call Chris on 01409 221362 for more information.

April

Part time position, one day a week.

April 10 Join members of the Chagford community and community group ‘Plastic Free Chagford’ to clean up the town on Sunday, April 10 from 10am to 1pm, Endecott House, Chagford. To find out more go to www.proper-job.org/events

March 19

April 22

The Inner Wheel Club of Okehampton is holding a Coffee Morning in the Charter Hall, Okehampton, on Saturday, March 19 from 9.30am to noon. All the usual stalls. Come and enjoy a cuppa whilst

Spring Gala Dinner to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance of Okehampton’s Christmas lights. The venue will be at Charter Hall, Okehampton, ticket price £30. Entertainment for the evening will

Roadford Lake

#ItsYourOutdoors

Can you help? Would suit a hard working person with an interest in the environment. Must have had at least one seasons practical beekeeping. Own transport required. Contact Peter Hunt on 01647 440322 for more information.

Every Sunday Car boot sale at Winkleigh Sports Centre. Sellers from 9am. Inside and outside pitches £6. Buyers 10.30am to 12.30pm. For more information call 01837 880031 or 07821472495.

Come and explore this beautiful lake for a great day out • walking • café • new play area • wildlife • cycling • running • watersports • angling

01566 771930 • www.swlakestrust.org.uk/roadford • PL16 0RL 48

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WHAT’S ON

Caption: Walkers on the 2017 event spot a rarity overhead Picture by Chris Walpole.

Dawn Chorus Walk After a Covid-enforced absence of two years the Belstone Dawn Chorus walk is back so set those alarm clocks, mobile devices, timers and body clocks. The walk, led as usual by Chris Walpole, leaves Belstone Village Hall at 5.30am on Saturday, April 30 and follows a varied route around the parish, through woods, across fields,

along lanes and over the open moor. Wear your walking boots for the rough bits and bring your binoculars and bird-identifying apps, but please leave your four-legged friends at home. We should be back at the Hall for an ‘all-you-can-eat’ breakfast by 8am. Suggested donations of £2.50 for the walk or £6 for the walk and breakfast will be gratefully received for hall funds.

e h t ke

OPEN EVENTS

for Adult and Higher Education courses Visit exe-coll.ac.uk for spring dates and to register

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WHAT’S ON

March and April National Garden Scheme Spring is here and a great opportunity to get out and visit two gardens open for charity in March and April: Monkscroft in Zeal Monachorum, and Andrew’s Corner at Belstone, near Dartmoor.

Monkscroft is a medium sized pretty garden of the oldest cottage in the village packed with spring colours including primroses, daffodils, tulips, magnolias and camellias and a new exotic garden. Also a steep walk away (approximately 20 minutes), or 5 minutes by car is a tranquil fishing lake with daffodils and wild flowers and home to a resident kingfisher. Dogs on leads are welcome. The garden is open on Saturday, March 26 from noon to 5pm

and Sunday, March 27 from noon to 5pm. Admission is £5, children free, and there will be home-made teas. The garden is at Zeal Monachorum, Crediton EX17 6DG. Andrew’s Corner, garden contains a very wide range of unusual trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants for year round effect, including erythroniums, arisaemas, ferns and many spring bulbs. This wildlife-friendly garden also includes a kitchen garden and two greenhouses. Quiz sheet, fairy doors and a children’s playhouse make this a garden for all ages. Open on Sunday, April 10, Sunday, April 17 and Monday, April 18 from 2pm to 5pm and many more dates. Admission is £5, children free, and there will be home-made teas. The garden is at Skaigh Lane, Belstone, EX20 1RD Both gardens are opening for the National Garden Scheme which raises money to support Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Hospices UK, Carers Trust and other nursing and caring charities.

The Devon NGS yellow booklet with details of all the gardens open this year and more information about the work of the National Garden Scheme is now available in Garden Centres and many other outlets so look out for a copy. There are lots of lovely gardens large and small to visit, most of which are not open to the public at any other time. There are refreshments and plants for sale at many of the gardens and many allow dogs on leads. These two gardens are just those which are opening in this area in March and April but there are many more across Devon. A look around a beautiful garden, a cup of tea and cake and the proceeds going to help these great nursing charities who will have helped so many of us. What could be better!? Please check on the website www. ngs.org.uk for up-to-date information on openings and any current Covid restrictions before you set out.

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WHAT’S ON

DNPA Exhibition Until April Travel back in time and enjoy the last 70 years of Dartmoor as a National Park. Celebrate with DNPA during this commemorative exhibition as they share the special qualities of Dartmoor and the significant events of the last seven decades. The exhibition, at the National Park Visitor Centre, has been created in collaboration with the Dartmoor Trust. A charity run by volunteers, which holds a rich archive with thousands of images, audio recordings and videos of Dartmoor’s past. Interesting items from the last 70 years on Dartmoor have been kindly loaned by The Museum of Dartmoor Life.

As part of the exhibition, you have the opportunity to make your own pledge to Dartmoor. Your pledge can be big or small but will, in some way, help keep the National Park special so it can be enjoyed by many others in years to come. For example, you could think about volunteering with us, making a small contribution to Donate for Dartmoor, buying local, or simply helping to Love Moor Life by following the Ranger Code when you’re out and about. Browse DNPA’s range of limited edition 70th products, including prints from Devon artist Becky Bettesworth, exclusively designed mugs and tea towels from local artisan HK White, pins, flasks and notebooks made from sustainably sourced wood to record your

Dartmoor adventures. These products are available at all National Park Visitor Centres.

Four events by Friends of Tavistock Festival Plans for this year’s Tavistock Festival are well underway and organisers are looking forward to welcoming many well known artists and ensembles. Full details will be available on Tavistock Festival’s website (www. tavistockfestival.org). In the meantime, organisers have planned four Friends of the Festival events as follows: Thursday, March 10 at St Andrew’s Church, Whitchurch. 1pm Admission free. Refreshments available: Dr Sean Sweeney (Organ) One significant loss in 2020 was the diminution of the Mayflower 400 programme. Supported by Plymouth Culture, Plymouth Music Accord and Plymouth and District Organists’ Association two organ pieces were commissioned from Plymouth composer Clive Jenkins and American organistcomposer Carson Cooman. This concert features both works together with music

‘from the New World’ and the Plymouth Suite by Percy Whitlock. Saturday, March 19 at Tavistock Parish Church, 7.30pm. Tickets available at the door. Refreshments available: The South West Chamber Choir A Lenten Feast of seasonal choral music to include works by Bach, Faure, Ireland, Mendelssohn and others. Further details to be published here when known. Thursday, March 24 at Tavistock Parish Church, 1.00pm. Admission free. Refreshments available:

Mary, Kamila and Leslie Mazur-Park (Piano and Oboe) One of the Festival’s most popular events including music for solo piano, solo oboe and piano duet. Thursday, March 31 at Tavistock Parish Church, 1.00pm. Admission free. Refreshments available: Rosemary Turner (Soprano) and Andrew Wilson (Piano) A diverting compilation for voice and piano including a selection from a new set of songs ‘Stella’s Cycle’ by Andrew Wilson.

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MUSIC AND ART

Jim Causley sings The Archangel’s Way Last year The Archangel’s Way pilgrimage walk, which links churches, chapels and communities around north Dartmoor between Brentor and Chagford, was inaugurated at a special event in Belstone. Multi-award winning Devonshire singersongwriter and musician Jim Causley was asked to write a special song for the occasion which he premiered to great acclaim on the village green.

A film of this performance has now been released on YouTube – just search ‘Jim Causley Belstone’ or use the link https://youtu.be/ GxkJeg7RRGs.

Stone Lane Call for entries for the Stone Lane Gardens Sculpture ExhibitionApplications are invited from emerging/early career sculptors based in or connected to the South West of England. Organised by Stone Lane Gardens Charitable Trust, submissions are free and open to all. Closing date is March 31 at noon. Please submit photographs of your work or details of proposed work including dimensions and weight if possible.The theme this year is ‘connectivity’ - connectivity may be interpreted in terms of materials, form, growth, and especially potential energy. It can apply to the body (internal to external); to place; to others; or, paradoxically, between materiality and the void. Connectivity implies affinity, openness, both being receptive to, and actively seeking, relatedness.Our 2022 selectors are ceramicist Sandy Brown, arts author and academic Penny Florence

and Stone Lane trustee Sandy Lipo. A £1,000 Ashburner prize, supported by Caradon Granite, will be awarded for the sculpture that best represents the theme

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‘connectivity’.For more information, visit https://stonelanegardens.com/

MUSIC AND ART

Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust partners with charity to help students find their voice! Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust (DMAT) has embarked on an exciting and ambitious partnership with the Voices Foundation, working with all 14 primary schools within the trust to develop and embed a progressive music curriculum for their pupils, staff and school communities. Artist Practitioners from the Voices Foundation will work with every single classroom teacher across all 14 DMAT schools to give them the skills, knowledge and confidence to deliver a high-quality music education through singing. Manvinder Rattan, CEO of The Voices Foundation said: ‘I am delighted that we will be working with Dartmoor MultiAcademy Trust to help support musical development for their teachers and through them, so many pupils at their schools. ‘We know that Covid has had adverse effects on so many aspects of school life, not least the wellbeing of children and we also know that more and better and singing not only helps improve wellbeing but also has a positive impact on attainment levels across the curriculum. I look forward to seeing the pupils of Dartmoor enjoying the benefits of all that in due course.’

The programme will run across the academic year and will culminate in a Singing Celebration at the end of the summer term to showcase everything that the teachers and pupils have learnt. The hope is that this partnership will embed music and singing into school life through the curriculum and engages teachers and children by focusing on sustainable and integrated music education for all! Voices Foundation is a national music charity working to help schools, academies and other partners from across the UK to establish effective music education since 1993. Everyone has a voice, and the belief is that

singing is a powerful way for children to become proficient musicians, excel across the curriculum and develop self-esteem. Veronica Lloyd Richards, Associate Executive Director of Schools for Dartmoor Multi-Academy Trust said: ‘We are truly excited to begin work with the Voices Foundation and support the positive impact it will have across all our Primary schools. Our trust is bursting with creativity and talent, and we believe that every student should have the chance to express themselves through singing and experience the joy of making music together.’

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MUSIC AND ART

Okehampton memories are rooted in Haniell’s new music An Okehampton artist has released a new album focussed on the town and Dartmoor. This is the third solo album to have been released by Haniell Langton-Laybourn and places around Devon are mentioned, including South Zeal, Okehampton Castle and Dartmoor. Haniell grew up in Okehampton and lived in the same house on Castle Road until he was 19, so understands the town better than anyone! He now lives in London and this album was created during lockdown, a time when he was unable to travel back home, so this album is his ‘dream-memory’ of Devon. He attended South Tawton Primary School and Okehampton College - he first starting playing guitar when he was eight-years-old and writing songs when he was 15. ‘It was around that age, studying GCSE music with Val Berry at Okehampton College, that music really became the main focus of my life. I played in and briefly conducted the big band there, and I was in a band that won the 2014 Okehampton Battle of the Bands. ‘I’ve released 3 solo albums, and they’re all largely about growing up in

Okehampton. These are People Doing Things (2017), Ocmundtune-mastix & Now (2019) and Harry Anne Linseed (2021). Harry Anne Linseed was recorded during the nationwide lockdown at the start of 2021, when Haniell was furloughed from his job in a bookshop. ‘I recorded it all in my bedroom, with a few cameo appearances from housemates of mine (playing violin and saxophone),’ he said. ‘As usual, the songs are mostly about Okehampton. “Haunted Keep” is about seeing a ghost at Okehampton Castle; “Harvest Festival” is about a mysterious playing card that was stuck to the ceiling of the Victory Hall in South Zeal - we had school assemblies there, and I

was always curious about why the card was there; “I Was Walking Again in Dreamland” is inspired by a painting by local artist Sandy Carter called “Walking With a Lion on Klondyke” and is about travelling onto the moor across the A30 footbridge; “Fall of the Granite Man” is a creation story about Dartmoor.’ The artwork is by Thomas Gooch, and he’s incorporated lots of images of Okehampton, including the castle, All Saints Church and the Okehampton Argyle FC kit. He’s done the artwork for all my albums, and has illustrated many places in and around Okehampton. To listen to Haniell’s new album, visit https://haniell.bandcamp.com/album/ harry-anne-linseed

Meet the artist: Rebecca De Mondenca Saturday March 5th 1-4pm

Dartmoor’s Art Gallery Representing the region’s ﬁnest artists

www.wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk Chapel Lane, Horrabridge, Yelverton PL20 7SP • info@wildwoodartsdartmoor.co.uk • 01822 258529

Traditional, investment & contemporary ﬁne art . prints . ceramics . jewellery . glass . textiles

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Est. 1989

CREATIVITY

From its inception in 1989 Landmarc has always paid the greatest respect to existing landscapes and conditions when satisfying clients requests. On several occasions this has meant employing innovative approaches to problem solving and construction. This ethos has given us the opportunity to work in excess of fifty National Trust and English Heritage properties as well as numerous projects in the private and public sector. The image on the right is a recent example of our expertise. What was originally just a field at the bottom of the garden has been transformed into a stunning natural swimming pool with a reed generation zone, jetty and waterfall and has the additional benefit of providing a haven for wildlife.

VERSATILITY

Having invested in a wide range of modern plant and equipment, this enables us to undertake the majority of works required. Our fabrication workshop gives the additional compliment of providing bespoke steel work, from traditional tree guards, estate railings, gates, pedestrian & vehicular bridges. We work in a variety of locations including AONB, SSSI and tidal/coastal areas. No two jobs are exactly alike, and each has its own particular problems. Our three decades of experience has given us a vast knowledge of how to overcome challenges.

CAPABILITY

A wealth of knowledge and our welltrained team means we can see any project through from design to completion, including project management contracts involving other trades. Working alongside machine technology & ongoing investment enables us to offer services & solutions beyond what others may be able to offer. As environmental engineers we are aware of our carbon footprint, so all machinery runs on bio-oil and we are constantly striving for more sustainable alternatives.

A small family run business with a lot to offer, at Landmarc we are big enough to cope, yet small enough to care.

LANDMARC 01803 712946 07970 256590 www.landmarc.co.uk info@landmarc.co.uk See our community website www.dartmoorlinks.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Would you care for some wood in your wine? It may not sound appealing, but ‘oaked’ wines are some of the finest in the world – why? Well, when barrels replaced amphorae for transporting wine, people noticed the wine tasted fuller, softer, and gained flavours of culinary spices. They also gained tannic structure and lasted longer. The principal wood associated with making and ageing wine is oak - oak barrels are watertight due to their close grain, but allow tiny amounts of oxygen to penetrate the wood, developing the wine as it ages - particularly important for fine wines. Most barrels are French (mainly from 5 specific forests) which typically bring vanilla flavours, and American, which has notes of coconut. The strength of these flavours is determined by how ‘toasted’ the inside of the barrel is when a cooper heats the wooden staves over a fire. The wine extracts flavours and tannins from the wood, so eventually the barrels need replacing. Barrels are expensive. Entire forests of ramrod-straight trees are grown to be made into barrels by coopers. These age-old skills are time-consuming and expensive. Barrels used in premium wine production might

only be used 4 times before they need replacing and cost about £500 each! They are re-used for wines requiring more subtle use of oak, and recycling continues until they end up in your garden, cut in half and full of dahlias!

Primary flavours come from the grapes, secondary from winemaking choices e.g. making it in oak barrels. Tertiary flavours develop during ageing, and though barrels can be used, many wines develop flavours in bottles too.

The ultimate wine question is ‘do you like it?’, so whether oaked wine is ‘better’ depends on you! The longer a wine spends in oak, the stronger the flavours, and the more expensive it is (note - simple, fruity wine isn’t always cheaper than oak-aged wine, as many great wines are prized for their pure fruit flavours!), so if you don’t enjoy oaky flavours, that’s great news for your wallet!

There are cheaper ways of adding oak flavours. Oak staves (planks really!) can be added to vats, as can oak ‘chips’ (essentially a giant ‘tea bag’), and even liquid and powder oak flavourings are commercially available. These are useful for people making wine at home or producers of very inexpensive wines. However, any quality oaked wine will be made using barrels because of the degrees of subtlety that can be achieved. As always, there’s only one way to find out what you enjoy, so happy researching!

Another reason oaked wines are expensive is they normally use premium quality grapes. Oaked wines are more complex with 3 ‘layers’ of flavour, so quality fruit flavours are essential.

Dave Anning

Charity Lunches Supporting Devon Air Ambulance Fridays and Saturdays between 12.00 noon and 2pm Two course lunch £21.50 Three course lunch £28.50 Tea, Coffee and Petit Fours £3.50 Charity envelopes will be provided for donations

A Family Run Hideaway in Devon 56

LEWDOWN, OKEHAMPTON, DEVON EX20 4PN TELEPHONE: +44 (0) 1566 783 222

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FOOD & DRINK

No-bake Mint Aero Cheesecake This cheesecake was trialled by Gilead Foundations and was a huge success they encourage everyone to give it a go. Prep time – 25 mins Setting time – 6+ hours Servings – 14 slices

Ingredients For the base: 300g Digestives 150g butter (unsalted) 25g cocoa powder (optional) Cheesecake filling: 500g Mascarpone 125g icing Sugar 1-2 tsps peppermint extract 300 ml double cream 200g Mint Aero Green food colouring Decoration: 150ml double cream 2 tbsp icing sugar Mint Aero 50 g melted chocolate

Method For the base

For the decoration

1. Break the digestives (with the cocoa powder if using) until they form a fine crumb

1. Once it has set, remove from the tin. Whip together the double cream and icing sugar until thick.

2. Mix the melted butter into the biscuits and press down into the bottom of a deep springform tin and place into the fridge whilst you create the filling.

2. Drizzle over some melted chocolate, pipe on some the whipped cream, and add on even more Mint Aero!

For the cheesecake 1. Using a mixer, combine the mascarpone, icing sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth. 2. Add the double cream and whisk the two mixes together, towards the end add in the green food colouring until it turns into a pale green colour. Whisk until it forms solid peaks. 3. When whisked – fold through the chopped up Mint Aero pieces and spread on top of the biscuit base. Refrigerate for more than 6 hours hours to set.

Gilead Foundations offers a lowlevel support facility for women with life controlling issues, such as substance abuse, yet is also for those with emotional difficulties such as depression. Gilead’s aim is not only to provide safe housing but also to support the women through the therapy and skills training required leading to future employment and ultimately change their lives for the better. For more information on Gilead Foundations, please see this edition’s Noticeboard section. This recipe was created by Jane’s Patisserie. Her recipes can be found at www.janespatisserie.com

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HISTORY

‘999, what’s your emergency?’ A system for immediately notifying the emergency services of an incident was implemented in the UK in 1937 with the introduction of the ‘999’ telephone number by the Metropolitan Police. The number was introduced following a house fire in 1935 in which five people died. During the incident, the telephone switchboard was flooded with calls and the operators had no means to prioritise emergency calls over routine ones. One caller was held in a queue for several minutes and was so concerned about the delay that he later wrote a letter to the editor of The Times newspaper. The letter caught the eye of someone in government, and a review was initiated. ‘999’ was originally limited to a small area of London; a 12-mile radius around Oxford Circus. Over time, it was adopted in other cities and towns across the country and became a fully national service in the 1960s. Long before the existence of mobile telephones and automated exchanges, telephone calls in the UK were fielded by the General Post Office (GPO), which was rebranded as British Telecom (BT) in 1981. The caller picked up the telephone handset, dialled ‘0’, and requested the relevant number or destination from the operator. By dialling ‘999’ on a rotary telephone, a red flashing beacon was activated at the telephone exchange which prompted the operator to prioritise the call. From the outset, the operator has always first asked the caller which service they require, which is still in practice in the present day. In the southwest of England, ‘999’ was adopted in Plymouth, Truro, and Kingsbridge on January 1, 1946. At the time, the chief constable of Plymouth hailed the scheme as a step forward for 58

the city, and said: ‘As far as the police are concerned, we can guarantee that within five minutes of the receipt of the call a wireless patrol car can reach any part of the city’. To maximise success, the scheme had to work in hand with radio-equipped police cars and motorcycles, and in some areas such as Torbay (where even in the present day the landscape provides challenges for the police ‘Airwave’ radio system), technological advances had to be made in order to roll out ‘999’ uniformly and efficiently and it took many years before the whole of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly obtained coverage. In Plymouth, emergency police calls were passed to the control room at Greenbank Police Station, which was the headquarters of the Plymouth City Police force. In the Devon Constabulary, calls were managed from the information room at Middlemoor on the outskirts of Exeter, whilst a separate system existed in Exeter City Centre, which had its own independent police force and managed calls from Waterbeer Street Police Station, and from Heavitree Police Station from 1960. In 1965, a government inquiry into the proposed amalgamation of Exeter City Police with the Devon Constabulary

highlighted problems with the ‘999’ system in an area where two police forces operated very closely. The inquiry found that on many occasions, the GPO operators struggled to identify whether the ‘999’ call came from within the boundary of the city of Exeter (policed by Exeter City Police) or the surrounding districts (policed by the Devon Constabulary). In these instances, the operator sometimes connected the call to the wrong force, necessitating a transfer of responsibility from one force to another, and therefore caused delays in the police response. The inquiry also found that if multiple calls were made about the same incident, it was potluck whether the operators had enough local knowledge to pass the calls to the city or county police, and sometimes both forces ended up responding to the same incident. By 1960, Cornwall had near total ‘999’ coverage, save for a small area around Bude. All calls were by this time intercepted by the information room at Bodmin Police Station. The force had only two dedicated emergency telephone lines however, and in the summer of 1960, Cornwall’s chief constable, Richard Bonnar Matthews, became concerned about the number of frivolous calls made and said, ‘…we do not want them cluttered up with trivial reports and complaints’.

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HISTORY

Camborne control room in the 1980s

Examples of calls made to the ‘999’ number in that year included: A report of a dog puncturing beach balls at Porth Beach; acomplaint about the toilets at a holiday camp being dirty; a complaint about a vending machine failing to dispense; ‘My husband and I have been working in the garden and that Sarah keeps aggravating us’; multiple requests to speak personally with specific police officers. The amalgamation of the southwest’s police forces on June 1, 1967, which created the modern Devon & Cornwall Police, resulted in a reduction in the number of control rooms in Devon and Cornwall, however over the course of the 1970s and 80s, regional control rooms returned as the force adapted to ever increasing demand. The force returned to a two-room setup in the early 2000s – Middlemoor Control Room, in Exeter, and Crownhill Control Room, in Plymouth. Computerisation changed the nature of emergency call handling. The ability to record and playback ‘999’ call audio came about in 1979 with the purchase and installation at police headquarters of a ‘Racal’ machine which could record 32 channels of telephone calls and radio traffic simultaneously onto magnetic tape. The ability to record

calls also permitted audio recordings to be exhibited as evidence in criminal investigations. In the present day, calls are recorded digitally on a system called ‘Red Box’. FALCON, the force’s first computer system for electronically logging and managing live incidents, was introduced in 1987, followed by OIS in 1993 and STORM in 2012. The latter system permits the seamless transfer of incident logs to the Avon & Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire police forces. Incidents can also be transferred to British Transport Police and Highways England. At its most efficient, the service allows the prompt dispatch of police officers, firefighters, paramedics, or the coastguard to incidents where life is at risk. Put simply, ‘999’ saves lives. However, every year thousands of calls are made accidentally. The prevalence of the mobile telephone in the 1990s and 2000s caused an increase in unintended calls being made, and the situation remains the same in the present day despite telephone manufacturers moving towards lockable touch screen devices.

999 calls promptly. Be it the sheer volume of calls compared to the number of police staff available to answer them, or accidental, inappropriate, or hoax use of the number preventing genuine emergency calls from getting through. Since 1967, it has been a criminal offence in England and Wales to make a hoax call to the police which results in the unnecessary and wasteful dispatch of police officers. In 2004, a law was passed which rendered the raising of a false alarm of fire a criminal offence. You should only dial ‘999’ in an emergency. An emergency is any incident where life is at risk, a crime is in progress, an offender in a crime is nearby, or immediate action is required in order to save life, limb, and/or property. Remember, if you dial ‘999’ accidentally, please stay on the line with the BT Operator and let them know the call was made in error. If you hang up or don’t say anything, the BT Operator may pass the call to the police for investigation. You will not get in trouble for accidentally calling 999.

In 2020, Devon & Cornwall Police received 255,087 ‘999’ calls, 652,878 ‘101’ calls, 106,068 emails, and 13,046 webchats. It is very much a reality that the police are not always able to answer

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This article was produced by the Museum of Policing in Devon and Cornwall www.dcpolicingmuseum.co.uk Pictures are from SWPHCT

WALK

Drewsteignton, Rectory Wood and the Teign Gorge This walk has been kindly written and walked for Oke Links by Lisa Harris This walk largely avoids the usual popular routes by following quiet tracks through and around Rectory Wood. The area is rich in wildlife, and the views across the Teign Gorge are spectacular. The basic walk can be extended via detours to Fingle Bridge or Castle Drogo. Drewsteignton is a small village located in the north east of Dartmoor National Park, and a great starting point for many walks. It boasts a famous pub, the Drewe Arms, and a very useful community shop. A mile to the west is Castle Drogo, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the early 20th Century. Well worth a visit, it was the last castle to be built in England and is now owned by the National Trust. Starting from the car park behind the church, walk back through the churchyard and village square (with the Drewe Arms on your right) then bear left and immediately right at the road

junction towards Castle Drogo. After about 150 metres, take the bridleway to the left which heads down into Rectory Wood. Cross the stream, go through the gate and turn left to follow the stream down the valley. Where the path forks, take the right hand one. It leaves the stream and heads uphill, signposted ‘Hunters Path’. After 200 metres you’ll come to another fork where you keep left, still on the Hunters Path, through the centre of the wood. At a junction of paths keep straight on to a gate 30m ahead. Follow the obvious path around the side of the hill for about half a mile. You may well see deer! As the path curves around to the north, the view across the Teign Gorge to the west opens up towards Chagford and the moor beyond. A path joins here from the left where you can detour down to the popular Fingle Bridge in about 20 minutes (but beware the steep climb back up!)

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If you wish to detour from the route to visit the castle, (or its shop and tearoom!) carry on up the full set of steps towards the castle where you will soon join its access road. Otherwise, keep following the grassy slope straight ahead over a crossing track, which then bears to the right away from the castle

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Our route now follows along the side of the steep river valley, signed as the ‘Hunters Path for Castle Drogo’. Ignore a path forking off to the right, and also a small set of steps signposted to Drewsteignton. You’ll see the Castle up ahead, now thankfully without its plastic coat worn during several years of major repairs to the structure. Ignore another set of steps on the right to stay on the Hunters Path. Where the path bears left to skirt the castle grounds, climb the steps to your right, go through a gate then head to the right up the grassy slope in the break between sets of steps.

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WALK

Teign Gorge Path to Fingle Bridge

Castle Drogo

Rectory Wood

Road to Castle Drogo

Road to Fingle Bridge Drewsteignton Village Square Church Road to A30

Car Park

towards a gate at the top of the hill. You are now on the fantastically-named Piddledown Common. Go through the gate and you’ll be starting back towards Fingle Bridge along a higher path running parallel to the one you approached the Castle on. But after about 400 metres, take a footpath to the left into a large field (you may see more deer in here!) This part of the walk coincides with the Two Moors Way which runs coast to coast from Minehead down to Wembury. Climb

straight up the hill, go across a second field (you will see Drewsteignton ahead of you across the valley) and then drop steeply down to a gate back into Rectory Wood. Here you can follow a steep set of steps back down to the gate where you entered the wood, or alternatively follow the wider path which zigzags more gradually down to the gate through a recently planted area of young trees. From here you can retrace your steps back to the village.

Distance: Approximately 4 miles Difficulty: A few ups and downs, and there are also flat sections of easy walking with magnificent views Time: 2 hours Start point: Drewsteignton Village Car Park OS grid reference 735908

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Oke Links March/April 2022

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